Official Business Accounts (OBA) in WhatsApp Business Platform: What Are They and How to Get One

In today's digital world, WhatsApp helps millions of businesses connect with customers securely. One powerful feature for established brands is the Official Business Account (OBA). This guide breaks it down simply - what it is, who qualifies, and how to apply - so you can decide if it's right for your business.

Official Business Accounts

An Official Business Account is a special status for WhatsApp business phone numbers. It belongs to a real, verified, and well-known brand.

You'll spot these accounts easily:

A blue checkmark appears next to the business name in chats and contacts.
It signals to users, "This is the authentic brand - no fakes here!"

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OBAs are not for personal employee numbers, test accounts, or regular WhatsApp Business app users. They're exclusive to businesses on the WhatsApp Business Platform.

Eligibility Criteria

Not every business can get OBA status. WhatsApp sets clear rules to keep it meaningful:

Follow WhatsApp's Business Messaging Policy (no spam or misuse).
Be active on the WhatsApp Business Platform for at least 30 days.
Have full Business Verification completed in your Meta Business portfolio.
Turn on two-step verification for extra security on your phone number.
Use an approved display name (the name customers see).

If you meet these but can't apply directly, reach out to Meta support for help.

Notable Brand

This is the "fame factor." WhatsApp wants OBAs for brands people already know and search for often.

How do they check?

Look for news articles about your brand in trusted, high-traffic publications (think Reuters, BBC, or major local outlets).
No paid ads, promotions, or directory listings count—only genuine editorial coverage.
Notability ties to your exact display name. Change it later? You'll need re-approval.
Sub-brands can borrow fame: Try "YourSubBrand by FamousParent."

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Pro tip: Prior approvals on other numbers don't auto-approve new ones.

Official Business Account Configuration in WhatsApp Business Manager

Request Denied

Rejection happens if you fall short on eligibility or notability.

What to know:

Decisions are final—no appeals.
Wait 30 days before reapplying (and strengthen your case!).
A "no" doesn't block you from using WhatsApp normally. You can still add a profile photo, website, email, and description.

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Most denials stem from weak news coverage or an incomplete setup.

Requesting OBA Status via WhatsApp Manager

Ready? Follow these straightforward steps inside WhatsApp Manager (found in your Meta Business Suite):

Double-check two-step verification is ON.
Go to Settings → WhatsApp Accounts → pick your number.
Click "Submit Request" for Official Business Account.
Fill the short form:

- Up to 5 links to reputable news articles proving notability.
- Your operating country, parent brand (if any), and main language.

OBA Submit Form

5. Hit submit—Meta reviews within days or weeks.

6. Get notified in-app: green checkmark for yes, explanation for no.

Request Official Business Account

Stuck? Meta support can guide eligible businesses.

Benefits

Earning the blue checkmark unlocks real advantages:

Instant trust: Customers know they're messaging the verified channel of the business.
Better discoverability: Your number appears in WhatsApp searches by customers (non-OBAs stay hidden unless saved).
Brand polish: Your brand stands out in the chat inbox of customers crowded with personal, business, and group chats.
Higher engagement: Customers open messages faster from verified accounts.

In short, it's free marketing credibility that can boost replies and loyalty.

Quick Recap & Next Steps

✅ Blue checkmark = authentic & notable.
✅ 30-day platform use + verification required.
✅ Gather 3–5 public media news links.
✅ Apply once, retry after 30 days if needed.

Head to WhatsApp Manager today and see if your brand qualifies. A little paperwork now can make your business shine tomorrow!